Ryan Fredericks could make a starting return this weekend for West Ham after around two months out with injury. The right back has been unable to get a solid run of form or games since arriving at the London Stadium from Fulham in the summer.
His injury away to Huddersfield in November meant that Pellegrini had to utilise Pablo Zabaleta far more often than he would have liked to over the hectic winter schedule. Frederick’s absence also meant Michail Antonio had to deputised in that position when needed, which is less than ideal.
Fredericks made his return yesterday in a behind closed doors friendly against Gillingham. He played 45 minutes in a 2-1 victory and can now look ahead to the Wimbledon tie in the FA Cup on Saturday. With Pellegrini set to rest a number of players, Fredericks should get his chance to stake a claim for a starting berth.
This will be a welcome return for Pellegrini, who has had to deal with a large amount of injuries this season. Fredericks will add much more pace and attack minded play than Zabaleta and could be a useful option for the remainder of the season.
Fredericks should look to use the second half of the season as a springboard for the next. At the age of 34, Zabaleta isn’t getting any younger and Fredericks should be looking to win a permanent place on the team sheet.
Having only made four starts this season, it is paramount that he can remain fit for the rest of the season.
Reece Oxford also played in the friendly as he recovers from an injury that has kept him out of action for the last three weeks. A move away from the club still looks likely for the 20-year-old, with several clubs monitoring his situation.
He has been unable to impress Pellegrini to warrant an appearance this season and is destined to move on from the club.
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